Asked in Copyright and Intellectual Property for Kentucky

Q: Do copyright protects every single lyrics of a song?

I am writing a short story

I would like one of my lines to be

"Tell that you love me even if it’s a lie"

But blackbear IDCF song. Has a similar line in his song.

Is this considered a original?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Copyright law does protect the lyrics of a song, but it's important to understand the nuances. The protection generally covers the unique expression of ideas in the lyrics, not necessarily short phrases or common expressions. In your case, the line "Tell that you love me even if it’s a lie" is relatively common and could be considered a part of everyday language.

However, if this line is a significant and distinctive part of Blackbear's song, using it could potentially raise concerns, especially if it's used in a way that might suggest a connection or endorsement by the artist or could be seen as borrowing heavily from the creativity of the song.

In your short story, if the line is used in a different context, or if it's not central to the narrative or theme in a way that closely mirrors the song, it may be less of a concern. It's often about how the line is used, rather than the line itself.

To be on the safe side, especially given the complexities of copyright law, you might consider altering the line slightly or using a different expression that conveys a similar sentiment. This approach can help avoid potential copyright issues while still maintaining the integrity of your story.

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